20. Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeffer

1.  Before the meteor strikes the moon, what are the biggest concerns in Miranda’s life? How do they change in the months that follow?  Miranda concerns are mostly high school teenager related.  The pressures of growing up dealing with homework, test, and friends.  Also her relationship with her dad and his new pregnant wife.  In the months that follow her biggest concerns are the basics: food, heat, water, and safety.  


2.  After Mrs. Nesbitt dies, Miranda goes through her kitchen cabinets and says doing so makes her “feel like a cannibal?” (p. 240) Why does she feel this way?   Mrs. Nesbit is dead probably not even cold yet and Miranda starts rummaging through Mrs. Nesbit house. I know life is about survival now but I thought she could at least tell her family say a prayer (even though she's not religious.)  I need a moment of silence at least.



3.  After the meteor strikes the moon, services such as telephone, Internet, and television stop, and Miranda writes in her journal that “Civilization had ended.” (p. 21) Do you think people are too dependent on electronic gadgets? Would you feel as Miranda does if you could no longer use 

the gadgets many people have come to depend on in their daily lives? How would you handle this situation?  Hell yeah!!!! I know I am.  When the electricity goes out for some reason I am completely at a loss.  You get so use to these gadgets that you feel attached to them.  I remember being without a microwave for a period of time.  I about lost my mind.  I think we as a people should have gadget free days just for a change of pace.  

4. How does Miranda feel about Megan’s religious convictions? (pp. 68–69) How does this affect their friendship? Do you think Megan’s faith is a good one?  Miranda thinks Megan is cuckoo and I would have to agree.  Faith shouldn't mean losing your common sense or your will to live.  They disagree on Megan's religious zeal and their relationship is ruined.